JP2023543353A - facial guard system - Google Patents

Abstract

A facial guard system configured to be worn on a person's head in front of the face works with a base that acts as a seal between the barrier and the person's face to open a filtered opening under the chin and A barrier is provided having a periphery forming a sealed space around the facial opening to which air may enter only through one or more additional filtered openings defined in the barrier and/or base. The base includes a conforming portion that creates a continuous seal across the wearer's forehead and down along the cheekbones, cheeks, and chin on each side of the wearer's face to below the wearer's chin. The submandibular filtered opening may include an integrated filter and fan unit to blow air into the enclosed space toward the nostrils of the person wearing the facial guard system.

Description

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/081,097, filed on September 21, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/182,411, filed on April 30, 2021. , each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

The present application relates to a facial guard that is worn on a person's face.

Wear a mask over your mouth and nose to slow down the spread of viruses such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes the severe acute respiratory distress syndrome called COVID-19, through the oral and nasal mucous membranes. Masks are more commonly used to reduce the inhalation and further spread of airborne pathogens (such as bacteria and fungi) and other particles that can cause irritation, injury, or illness.

There are many types of masks, but only a few have the ability to effectively block viruses while still providing the ventilation necessary for breathing. Masks that meet "N95" or equivalent standards are generally considered to be an effective barrier to the transfer of infectious virus particles. The filter media can filter 95% of particles that are 0.3 micrometers or microns in diameter. It is made of non-woven fibers that form a dense yet sufficiently porous interface that allows air to flow while allowing virus particles with a diameter of 0.3 micrometers or more to pass from one side to the other. Most of the particles are removed before they block passage and exit the other side of the filter media.

Many masks used to prevent the spread of the virus are disposable and simply consist of a snout-shaped filter material that covers the mouth and nose, which is held tightly against the face using straps or loops around the ears. It is something. There are several problems with using such masks. In particular, masks that are highly efficient and effective in filtering out small particles, such as masks that meet N95 and similar standards, can make it difficult to breathe when worn. Masks also muffle sound, making it difficult to hear or understand the voice of the person wearing the mask. The inability to see the wearer's mouth and facial expressions around the mouth exacerbates this problem, especially for the deaf and hard of hearing community. Additionally, an additional face shield is required to protect the eye mucous membranes. In addition, if masks are worn tightly against the face for a long time in order to create a tight seal, they may irritate or damage the skin of the nose and cheeks.

The present invention works with the face to create a sealed space in front of the face, includes a barrier into which air is sucked in, and from which air is expelled, and is designed to be worn on a person's head in front of the face. The present invention relates to a device configured to operate and use the device.

The device creates a secure interface between the wearer's face and, except for one or more filtered openings, prevents substantial air flow between the enclosed space and the environment. It is designed to prevent A barrier that prevents the passage of air or liquid under assumed environmental conditions between the facial opening and eyeballs of the wearer of the device and the environment is sealed to the face at the interface surrounding the facial opening and eyeballs. and creating a closed environment around the facial opening that allows air to enter and exit only through the opening defined by the device. In one example, the perimeter of the barrier, when worn, is located in front of and spaced from the wearer's face from a point above the wearer's eyes to a point at or below the user's mouth. Collaborate with your base. The base forms a seal with the barrier along its periphery, across the wearer's forehead, along the cheekbones, cheeks, chin on either side of the wearer's face, or preferably optionally along the wearer's chin. Forms a continuous seal with the wearer's face down to the tip. Once the base forms a seal with the wearer's face, the combination of the barrier and base defines an enclosed space and controls the flow of air into and out of the enclosed space, except through one or more openings in the device. become able to.

In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus provides a means for transporting air into an enclosed space through a filtration system that blocks at least a predetermined proportion of particles contained in the airflow passing through the filtration system of the type that the protection system is intended to protect. configured to only allow access to and from the In one example, the particle is a virus. A typical example of such a filtration system includes one or more apertures in a barrier and/or base configured to filter air passing through the aperture. Air may be exhausted through the same or optionally different filtered openings.

In a representative non-limiting example of this embodiment, the first filtered opening is located in a submandibular position under the wearer's chin or chin when the device is placed on the wearer's face. The filter is located on the device to allow air to enter and exit the enclosed space through the filter. In another non-limiting example, another opening is located above the eyes, near the forehead. The opening is located at a position that does not block the mouth or eyes of the wearer when the device is worn in front of the face. In this example, the subchin filtered opening is intended to function primarily for the inflow of fresh air into the enclosed space, but may also allow for the evacuation of air. The second filtered opening will function primarily as an outlet for the air within the chamber to exit. Additional filtered openings for air exchange can be placed along the sides of the device, if necessary, to increase the overall area over which air can be exchanged between the environment and the enclosed space within the device. can.

In another embodiment, the device may optionally include a battery-powered fan unit attached to the opening of the device to increase the amount of filtered air moving between the environment and the enclosed chamber. . In a representative, non-limiting example, a fan unit is attached to a filtered opening under the chin to blow filtered air into the closed chamber. Optionally, the fan unit is configured and oriented to create a flow or flow of air directed towards the wearer's mouth and nose to improve comfort.

In an alternative embodiment, the device is optionally connected to receive air from the respiratory system, such that the air from the respiratory system pressurizes the air volume within the enclosed space and pressurizes the wearer's oral and nasal airways. It may be adapted, for example, to treat sleep apnea by compressing the airways to help prevent them from collapsing. Facial Guards can provide a relatively wide sinus cavity without the need for masks or nasal nipples, such as those currently used to treat sleep apnea and other types of respiratory conditions, so such masks can Avoid the irritation and skin chafing caused.

The device can also be adapted for use in other applications.

These and other aspects and features are described below in connection with representative, non-limiting examples of embodiments of facial guard devices and systems illustrated in the accompanying figures.

1 is a side view of a first representative non-limiting embodiment of a facial guard system; FIG.

FIG. 3 is a front view of another example of a facial guard system.

FIG. 3 is a side view of yet another example of a facial guard system.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a second representative non-limiting embodiment of a facial guard system.

FIG. 7 is a side view of another example of the second representative non-limiting embodiment of the facial guard system.

6 is a front view of a second representative non-limiting example embodiment of the facial guard system of FIG. 5; FIG.

6 is a rear view of a second representative non-limiting example embodiment of the facial guard system of FIG. 5; FIG.

6 is a cross-sectional view of the second representative non-limiting example embodiment of the facial guard system of FIG. 5 as it is being worn on a person (shown in silhouette); FIG.

7 is a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary non-limiting embodiment of a facial guard system taken along section line 9-9 of FIG. 6; FIG.

6 is a perspective view of the facial guard system of FIG. 5 shown without vents or filtered openings in the facial shield to more clearly show the interface between the facial shield and the fixed platform; FIG.

1-3 for use with the embodiments of the facial guard systems of FIGS. 5-10; FIG. .

Another representative, non-limiting example of a vent that may be adapted for use with the facial guard system of FIGS. 1-3 for use with the embodiments of the facial guard system of FIGS. 5-10. Figure shown.

Another representative, non-limiting example of a vent that may be adapted for use with the facial guard system of FIGS. 1-3 for use with the embodiments of the facial guard system of FIGS. 5-10. Figure shown.

Representative, non-limiting example of an integrated fan and filter unit that may be adapted for use with the facial guard system of FIGS. 1-3 for use as a submandibular vent in the embodiments of the facial guard system of FIGS. 5-10. Schematic diagram of an example.

FIG. 15 is a partially exploded perspective view of a representative, non-limiting example of the integrated fan and filter unit of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a top view of the integrated fan and filter unit of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the integrated fan and filter unit of FIG. 16;

Another exemplary non-limiting example of an integrated fan and filter unit that may be adapted for use with the facial guard system of FIGS. 1-3 for use as a submandibular vent in the embodiments of the facial guard system of FIGS. 5-10. FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the embodiment.

In the following description, like numbers mean like elements.

Described below with reference to the drawings is a front view of a person's face for the purpose of illustrating various aspects and features, including optional features, that may be embodied or used alone or in combination with each other in such devices. is an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of an apparatus for creating an enclosed space containing a volume of air. A given embodiment or example may be modified or adapted in accordance with features disclosed or described in connection with another example of the same or different representative embodiment, unless specified as an alternative to a feature in the embodiment or example. may be done. Although the same reference numbers refer to the same or similar elements throughout the drawings, different reference numbers may be used for the same or similar elements in different figures or embodiments.

The devices described below, referred to as facial guards or masks, facial guard systems, or facial opening protection systems, generally include a barrier through which air cannot pass. The barrier has a size and shape that covers or extends in front of the wearer's eyes, nose, and mouth when supported a certain distance in front of the wearer's face by the base. The barrier is sealable and can be sealed with the base. The base has a shape that closely fits the contours of the face. The barrier and base thereby define an enclosed chamber or space between the wearer's face and the device, except for one or more vents that filter air flowing through the vents, between the enclosed chamber and the environment. prevent air exchange between

Any of the devices described below can be manufactured, adapted, configured, or modified in any way to accomplish any one or more of the following: An unavoidable safety barrier that allows the use of the wearer's interface to create a secure seal and better control the entry of viruses through proper filtration of the air; clear facial recognition and expression of appreciation by not hiding the wearer's expression; moisture control or absorption to reduce fogging, secure fit and easy removal, full body barrier system or social Integration with pleasing clothing/costumes, affordability for anyone to purchase, installation of virus inactivation zones using light such as ultraviolet light, use of hypoallergenic materials, controllable mechanical airflow, temperature and humidity Such as built-in.

The device can consist of a barrier integral with the base and one or more barriers. However, you can optionally flip the front screen up to allow drinking or eating with a straw. In the representative examples described below, the device can be configured to last for a long time with filter media that can be removed and replaced with new filter media, or with filter media that have been cleaned. In this way, the device can be configured to reduce waste and environmental damage caused by the use of disposable masks.

1-3 illustrate a typical embodiment of such a device, referred to herein as facial guard system 100. The visor 102 forms a barrier that is supported and positioned by a fixed platform 104, which is an example of a base, in front of the face 106 of the person wearing the device on the person's head 108. The fixation platform 104 is shaped to follow the contours of the wearer's face 106 when the device is worn as shown, with the base crossing the wearer's forehead and touching the cheekbones 110, cheeks 112 on either side of the face 106. , and down the chin 114 to contact the wearer's face below the chin 116. The fixation platform preferably extends under the wearer's chin when worn, but may optionally go down below the wearer's chin when worn, but may not go all the way down. The fixed platform thus positions the visor in front of the wearer's eyes 118, nose 120, and mouth 122.

The visor 102 and fixed platform 104 include one or more diaphragms made of filter media suspended or placed across an opening in the fixed platform in front of the wearer's face when the facial guard system 100 is worn. , which, under normal operating conditions, defines a substantially blocked closed chamber 124 (or enclosed space). In this manner, the filter media is filtering all air entering and exiting the closed chamber 124. The example of FIGS. 1-3 includes an upper diaphragm 126a that functions as a prefrontal filter and a lower diaphragm 126b that functions as a submandibular filter. The embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3 also includes at least one upper and lower diaphragm.

Typical examples of the fixed platform 104 include a relatively rigid portion 105, which is an exoskeleton made of a material such as a relatively hard plastic, rubber, or a soft rubber such as foam or silicone, or a combination thereof. It consists of a conformable portion 106 made of a soft and conformable material for sealing against the wearer's face. The conforming portion adapts or conforms to the contours of the wearer's face, such as by compressing, bending, stretching, or a combination thereof, to form a continuous seal with the skin when pressure is applied by the exoskeleton. It is something. The conforming portion is optionally resilient, meaning that it tends to return to its original position or shape when removed from the face. The fixation platform can be made of a two-layer construction, for example, with a soft, conformable inner layer of silicone and a hard plastic outer layer forming the exoskeleton.

The fixation platform 104 is pulled against the face and held to the wearer's head by two hooks 128, each extending behind the wearer's ears 130 into the retroauricular recess behind the ears. In this example, each hook forms a loop around the ear, with the posterior portion 129 located within the postauricular recess. The hook can also form a loop that completely surrounds both ears. Although not shown, each hook 128 is coupled via or integrally formed with an adjustable structure that allows the hook to be tightened to pull the fixation platform 104 against the face. .

Alternatively, the fixed platform 104 may be held against the face 106 by a retention system that connects each side of the fixed platform and optionally the top of the platform and extends around the back of the user's head. Although not shown in these figures, an example of such a retention system is in the form of a strap extending around the back of the wearer's head and is shown in FIGS. 4-10.

The visor 102 is a thin plastic with at least a rigid periphery that is fixed or fits around the front of the fixed platform 104 to act as a front screen and form a seal that prevents air flow between the visor and the fixed platform. can be made. Furthermore, the visor can be attached to the base in a fixed position and optionally in a way that allows it to be replaced or removed, for example for cleaning purposes.

As only represented in Figure 3, the visor 102 can optionally be opened and then closed to allow eating or drinking, for example using a straw, without removing the device. and may be adjustably connected between an open position and a closed position. For example, the facial guard system may include a semi-circular bridge positioned along the frontal forehead bar 132 of the fixed platform to which the visor is connected to allow the visor to be raised and lowered.

Returning to FIGS. 1-3, the visor 102 in these embodiments is made of clear plastic. Optionally, the visor may be partially or fully colored to reduce or block light transmission. For example, when worn by a health care provider, the visor is preferably made of clear plastic material or is lightly colored to allow visibility of the wearer's mouth and eyes. In other applications, the visor may be made in whole or in part from a material that is not translucent.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-10, a representative non-limiting example of another embodiment of a facial guard system, a facial guard system 200, is shown. Similar to the representative example of facial guard system 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3, facial guard system 200 is comprised of a barrier in the form of a visor or shield 202 and a base in the form of a fixed platform 204, with FIG. 3 shows a representative embodiment of such a device, referred to in this description as facial guard system 100. The shield 202 forms a barrier to airflow and liquids supported and placed in front of the wearer's face 206 by the fixed platform 204 when the device is mounted on the person's head 208, as shown in FIG. .

The fixation platform 204 is shaped to conform to the contours of the wearer's face 206 when the device is worn such that the base contacts the wearer's face 206, as shown. When properly worn, shield 202 is positioned at a distance in front of the wearer's eyes 218, nose 220, and mouth 222.

The shield 202 and fixed platform 204 define an enclosed chamber 224 in front of the wearer when the facial guard system 200 is worn, to which there is no access, except through one or more vents. It prevents air inflow and outflow and is substantially blocked under normal operating conditions. In this example, a lower or subchin vent 226a, an upper or forehead vent 226b, a side or lateral vent 226c located on one side of the face shield, and a lower or subchin vent 226a on the other side of the face shield. There are four additional side and side vents 226d located. The side vents are preferably arranged to increase the wearer's field of vision and allow the wearer's eyes to be viewed by others at a relatively wide angle. Each vent includes an integral filter (not visible in these views) that filters air entering and exiting the sealed chamber 224. The vent is attached through a defined opening in the shield 202.

The fixation platform 204 shown has a first portion 230 that cooperates with a peripheral edge 232 of the shield 202 to form a mechanical seal, and a second or compliant portion 234 that forms a mechanical seal with the wearer's face 206. is a representative, non-limiting example of a fixed platform having a Pulling the fixed platform 204 towards the face 206 forces the fixed platform against the face, thereby extending across the wearer's forehead, down each side of the face, past the cheekbones 210, cheeks 212, chin 214, and toward the chin. Seal surface 237 is pressed against the wearer's face 206 along a continuous line extending below 216 to form a continuous seal.

The sealing surface 237 is displaced relative to the first portion 230 (and thus also the shield 202) and curves to orient much of its surface area toward and into contact with the surface of the skin of the wearer's face 206, while simultaneously , which generates a force on the sealing surface to better match the orientation of the face 206 to the skin and support it in a manner that allows it to press against the face and form a seal that obstructs air flow between the fixed platform and the face. has been done. The mechanical seal created by the fixed platform ensures that the air pressure differential inside the sealed chamber 224, the environment outside the shield 202, and the velocity of any airflow impinging on the seal will be affected when the facial guard is worn and used as intended. When within the expected range, airflow can be substantially blocked.

In this example, the first portion 230 has a slot 231 formed by a fold 233 that will act as a seal between the anchor portion and the peripheral edge 232 of the shield 202. This is best seen in FIG. Due to the material from which the first portion is made and the geometry of the slot and the portion of the shield received within the slot, the inner surface of the slot tends to sandwich the surface of the shield 202 that is within the slot 231. The pinching not only improves the quality of the seal, but also helps to maintain the connection between the shield and the fixed platform so that there is no tendency to separate during normal or intended use of the facial guard. In addition, the portion inserted into the slot of the shield has the function of not only creating a seal but also hardening the first portion 230 and thus hardening and fixing the shape of the fixation platform 204.

The conformable or second portion 234 includes a flap 236 having a surface 237, a sealing surface that functions to engage and create a seal with the skin of the wearer along the perimeter of the fixation platform. Generally, the greater the contact area between the sealing surface and the skin, the better or more reliable the seal will be. The flap connects along the proximal end to the distal end of the extension 238 at an oblique angle relative to the extension 238. A proximal end of extension 238 connects with first portion 230 at an oblique angle. Due to the resilient nature of the material from which the flap, extension, and first portion are made, a force applied to the sealing surface 237 of the flap causes the flap to bend or deflect relative to the extension 238. tending to cause the extension to bend or deflect with respect to the first portion 230 (and thus also the shield 202), with the result that the sealing surface 237 is displaced in a direction toward the first portion. , a force is generated that returns in the opposite direction, reorienting a portion of the sealing surface along the plane of the force. Thus, when a force is applied by drawing the fixed platform 204 and the wearer's face 206 together, the sealing surface 237 tends to move inward toward the first portion 230, causing the wearer to The direction of the sealing surface is changed to increase the contact area while also responding to variations in the distance between the face of the user and the first portion 230. Additionally, the elasticity of the material and the "Z"-shaped structure create a spring-like force in a direction generally perpendicular to the area of contact with the skin surface, which forces the sealing surface against the skin. Because the material is flexible and elastic, the structure does not deform when bent. When the fixation platform is removed from the face, the restoring forces of the material return the flap and extension 238 to their original, unloaded positions. Compatible portion 234 can include additional elements to achieve the desired shape, deflection, and force to improve sealing performance. An example is the reinforcing rib 246 for the flap 236 shown in FIG. Reinforced ribs strengthen the flap.

The illustrated structure of compliant portion 234 may also be adapted for use with fixed platform 104 for embodiments of facial guard 100.

In this example, the stationary platform is made of a pliable but resilient material, such as a soft rubber such as silicone. It is formed as an integral part, such as in a ring or loop shape. However, other configurations and substitutions are possible. Representative non-limiting examples include molding or extruding one or more lengths joined together, or manufacturing multiple ring-shaped elements joined together, or combinations thereof. This allows the elements of the anchor system to use materials with different properties such as hardness and elasticity, different geometries, or be adapted to compress and/or orient the sealing surface to the wearer's skin surface. An improved structure may be used that similarly functions to conform the fixation platform to the wearer's face by generating a return force generally normal to the sealing surface. However, fixed platforms in which some or all of the elements are of monolithic construction, for example made by a molding process, have fewer joints and therefore reduce or reduce the risk of joint gaps, leakage and joint failure. can.

Alternatively, the matching portion 234 can be formed using another type of material or a combination of arranged materials, for example. The structure of the compliant part may need to be modified based on the materials used or properties of the materials. Examples of other materials that may be used include foams, gels, rubber, etc. that function to conform to the face 206 with or without elasticity to restore the conforming portion 234 to its original or neutral position. , and combinations thereof.

The fixation platform 104 is pulled against the face and retained on the wearer's head by an adjustable retention system 240. The adjustable retention system in the illustrated embodiment has two straps 242 that extend around the back of the wearer's head and connect to loops 244 on the fixation platform. The length of the strap is adjustable and may be made of elastic material to ensure that a continuous force is applied to the fixation platform to pull it toward the face.

Each of the vents 226b-226d includes a replaceable filter held within an opening formed in the face shield by an adapter. The vent 226b functions as a prefrontal filter and primarily functions as an inlet and outlet for air within the sealed chamber. Vent holes 226c and 226d also function primarily as outlets or exit openings, although air may be drawn through the vents due to their proximity to the wearer's nose and mouth. Vent 226a further incorporates a battery-powered blower or fan to draw air into the sealed chamber, and thus serves as the primary vent or opening for air entry into the sealed chamber. It may also optionally have the ability to create air circulation within the closed chamber 224 to bring fresh air toward the wearer's mouth and nose.

Referring now also to FIGS. 11-13, these are representative vents 300 that can be used or adapted for use as any one or all of the vents 226a-226d of the facial guard system 200. A non-limiting example configuration is shown. The vent 300 may also be adapted to be inserted into one or both of the openings in the fixed platform 104 (FIGS. 1-3) in place of one of both diaphragms 126a and 126b. Examples of vents 300 include a filter in the form of a diaphragm, such as a membrane filter, with the edges of the filter and a barrier and/or It is supported within a structure that functions to form a seal between the edges of the aperture defined in the base.

The vent 300 defines an opening 303 and includes an adapter that mates with and forms a seal with the edge of the opening in a barrier, such as the face shield 202 shown in FIGS. 3-10, or a rigid portion of the anchor system. Includes ring 302. The adapter ring has a flange 304 having a lower surface that abuts the inner surface of the structure defining the opening to form a seal and prevent the adapter ring from being pulled through the attached opening. A filter media 306 in the form of a diaphragm extends across the opening 303 and is retained by the adapter ring 302, a cooperating cap 308 that functions to retain the adapter ring within the opening, and optionally the filter media 306. . It also protects the filter media from physical damage while providing an opening 309 with sufficient cross-sectional area to allow adequate air flow. The sidewall 310 or rim of the adapter ring 302 defines an opening 303 and extends through the opening in the face shield 202 of the facial guard system 200. It may also be adapted for use with an opening formed in fixed platform 104 to hold a filter diaphragm, such as one or both of diaphragms 126a and 126b.

In the example of FIG. 11, the filter medium 306 rests on the upper edge 313 of the side wall 310 and is held or fixed by a plurality of pins 312 extending from the upper edge of the side wall. The pins extend through holes in the media that are positioned near the periphery of the media in a position that aligns with the pins when the filter is properly oriented and attached to the adapter ring. The pins are also aligned with sockets 314 formed inside the cap 308, which are connected to the sidewalls 310 to retain the filter media and provide a positive seal against the adapter ring. Alternatively, the pin and socket positions may be reversed. A latch 318 extending from the adapter ring 302 can flex when pushed into a corresponding opening in the cap 308 to release the catch or hook. The latch then returns and hooks onto the cap 308. The latch can be manually deflected and released from the cap, allowing the cap and adapter ring to be separated for filter removal and replacement. Alternatively, the latch can extend from the cap and engage an aperture and a latch surface formed in the adapter ring.

The example vent 300 shown in FIG. 12 is very similar to that shown in FIG. In this embodiment, a filter 307 is shown in which the end of the filter medium 306 is ultrasonically welded and cut in order to facilitate handling at the time of replacement. The filter media is optionally held within a frame or cartridge-like structure to facilitate handling and replacement.

In the example vent 300 shown in FIG. 13, the cap 308 and adapter ring 302 are not used to retain the filter media. The filter media is mounted within a rigid frame 321 to facilitate insertion and retention into the channel 322 formed by the inner surface 320 of flange 304 and flange 324 . The frame also helps establish and maintain sealing contact with the inner surface 320 of the flange 304. The sidewall of the adapter ring includes a channel 322 that cooperates with a lip formed around the periphery of the cap 308 to retain the cap.

In these examples, the adapter ring can be made of any type of material, such as plastic or rubber. For example, the ring may be made of medium hard rubber and the cap made of a hard plastic such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) to provide an effective seal between the filter and the barrier.

An adapter similar to any of these examples may be used to support the filter and form a seal between the filter and the edge of the opening formed in the rigid portion of the anchoring platform, e.g., FIG. can be used as a replacement for diaphragms 126a and 126b in the example of FIG.

Referring now to FIGS. 14-18 in addition to FIGS. 3-10, these figures depict an integrated fan and filter unit or assembly 400, which is the filter of facial guard systems 100 and 200. Figure 1 is a representative example of a type of vent that may be adapted for use as an opening. In the facial guard system 200, an integrated fan and filter unit 400 is employed as the submandibular vent 226a. Insert or attach it to the opening of the face shield 202. The facial guard system 100 described above in connection with the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 can be adapted to fit within or be secured to an opening in the fixation platform 104.

If integrated fan and filter unit 400 is not used for vent 226a of facial guard system 200, a vent of similar construction to any of the examples of vent 300 can be adapted for use as vent 226a. Integrated fan and filter unit 400 includes a fan configured to force air into sealed chamber 224 . Alternatively, the fan may draw air from the sealed chamber, reduce the pressure within the sealed chamber, and direct air flow into the sealed chamber from other vents. Additionally, a plurality of integrated fan and filter units may be installed in opposing openings, such as the prefrontal and submandibular openings of the face shield 202, and one of the integrated fans and filter units, preferably the submandibular unit, may be used for facial The prefrontal unit can also be configured to direct a flow of filtered fresh air from outside the guard system towards the wearer's nose, and to exhaust the air in the closed chamber to the environment.

Typical examples of types of fans that can be used in the integrated fan and filter unit include axial fans and centrifugal fans. The fan assembly includes a fan mounted within the fan housing, rotated by an electric motor, powered by a battery, and controls power to the motor and optionally provides battery recharging and other functions and capabilities of the unit. It may also include associated control circuitry for control.

In the example shown in essentially schematic FIGS. 14 and 15-17, a centrifugal fan assembly 402 is mounted within a vent housing 404 that includes a fan housing 410, an impeller 412, and a motor. A motor (not shown) is attached to a shaft 414 on which an impeller is attached to rotate. The fan assembly draws air, indicated by arrow 406, from the environment through opening 407 (not shown in FIG. 14) in vent housing 404. Air is drawn through a filter 408 (only shown in FIG. 14) located across the inlet 416 (FIG. 17) to the fan housing 410. As shown by arrow 420 in FIG. 14, air exits the fan housing at a higher velocity airflow from fan housing outlet 418. Upon exiting the fanhouse, the airflow (arrow 420) is directed toward the vent housing 404. A portion of the vent housing 404 next to the fan housing outlet 418 is configured as a deflector 424 to assist in directing the airflow upwardly toward the mouth and nose of the wearer within the sealed chamber 224. . Alternatively, a baffle or similar structure can be placed near the fan outlet of the vent housing to divert airflow. Using a fan increases the amount of fresh air provided directly for breathing.

Although not shown, an inlet coupled to the housing receives a cap with an airflow opening that cooperates with the inlet opening to support a filter within the inlet, through which air is forced. The filter is removable for cleaning or replacement. It can also be incorporated into a cartridge or other structure, for example, and removed and replaced with another filter cartridge, removed to clean or replace the filter, and reinserted into an opening. Circuit 422 includes electronics to control fan operation and recharge battery 426, which is disposed within the vent housing and above the fan assembly. However, the batteries can alternatively be placed on either side, or on both sides of the fan assembly if there are two batteries, or on the outside of the vent unit of the facial guard system 200, or on the retention system 240 for the facial guard system. It can be placed in another location, such as an attached one. Controls for operating the machine are located on the exterior of the vent housing 404. Button 428 may allow the wearer to turn the fan on/off. USB port 430 is used to charge battery 426.

In the embodiment of an integrated fan and filter unit 400 shown in FIGS. 14-17, a centrifugal fan is used instead of an axial fan. Centrifugal fans have a larger pressure difference than axial fans of the same size, so they can generate a larger air volume for a given size opening. In addition, a large suction force (low pressure) is generated in the opening, which can compensate for the obstruction of air flow by the filter in the opening.

FIG. 18 shows an example where an integrated fan and filter unit 400 incorporates an axial fan assembly into a vent housing 404, which is not visible. Air is drawn into the underside of the unit, similar to the units shown in Figures 14-17, but with openings and The fan assembly exits the fan assembly through an outlet 432 aligned with the nose and mouth of the fan. Furthermore, the unit with an axial fan is configured to be attached to the face shield 202 by inserting the discharge port 432 through the opening and attaching and fixing the cap 434 by screwing onto a screw thread formed on the discharge port. It can be done. A filter 436 is mounted within the cap to filter air blown out prior to existing openings within the cap.

The integrated fan and filter unit can optionally incorporate ultraviolet radiation at a location in or next to the airflow to kill viruses in the airflow before entering the closed chamber. Systems for temperature and moisture regulation can optionally be incorporated where the upper or lower diaphragm is located. For example, an integrated fan and filter unit may optionally be controlled by a controller, e.g., through the addition of the ability to heat, cool, dehumidify, and/or humidify the air within the closed chamber or the air passing through the unit. may be adapted to function to control the temperature and/or humidity of the air introduced into the sealed chamber. The controller can optionally receive signals from one or more sensors indicating the temperature and humidity of the air within the chamber and/or outside the chamber. The filtration of devices may also be graded based on efficiency and based on the size of particles guarded.

In each of the above-described embodiments, examples of the diaphragm or filter material of each vent include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) equivalent to N95 and having a pore size of 0.3 μm. For example, a membrane filter made of PTFE laminated with polypropylene on one side for increased strength can be supported within a vent opening and is relatively easy to handle during installation and removal.

Referring now to all Figures generally, the barriers used in embodiments of facial guard systems 100 and 200 are made of relatively hard or rigid materials and are therefore free from vibrations caused by vibration of the vocal cords or from air pressure. There will be a tendency not to transmit sound, which is a wave of change. In fact, sounds made by the wearer may echo within the closed chamber. This is accomplished by placing a relatively large total area for all of the filtered openings (e.g., the filters in diaphragms 126a and 126b of facial guard system 100 and vents 226a through 226d of facial guard system 200). The problem is alleviated and the wearer can be easily heard, especially compared to wearing a mask that muffles speech.

Systems 100 and 200, such as facial guard systems, can be created by placing a barrier relatively close to the face. Additionally, the overall size of the barrier can be reduced by shaping the barrier to fit the face. However, doing so reduces the volume of the sealed chamber and reduces the volume of the sinuses. The volume of the sinuses is thought to influence the ease with which a person can speak clearly. If the volume defined by the closed chamber 124 or 224 becomes too small, such as by placing the barrier (such as the visor 102 or face shield 202) too close to the wearer's face, it will not be clearly visible, as when wearing a conventional mask. It can become more difficult to talk. The reason why it is difficult to speak when wearing a mask is because the volume of the sinuses between the mask and the wearer's mouth is relatively small, creating resistance or obstruction to the flow of air from the wearer's mouth through the vocal cords. Seem. Air flow is necessary to make the vocal cords vibrate. However, facial guard systems such as 100 and 200 can be made with relatively much larger, sealed chambers 124 and 224, large enough to make the wearer feel like they are talking without a mask. Can provide sinus volume.

Increasing the sinus volume within the sealed chamber increases the likelihood that the wearer's speech will echo within the facial guard system, which can be annoying to the wearer, impair the intelligibility of the wearer's speech, and impede the transmission of sound to the environment. Observations suggest that this also impairs intelligibility. Based on observations, it is believed that increasing the total area of the filtered openings of the facial guard system such that the ratio of total enclosed space to filtered openings is lower will alleviate these problems. For example, the total area of the filtered openings to the environment is directly related to the total area of the filter diaphragm used to filter the air in the illustrated embodiment. However, there is a limit to how large the submandibular opening and prefrontal opening can be made unless the overall size of the facial guard system is increased.

Facial guard system 200 includes filtered openings on opposite sides of face shield 202 to increase the total area of filtered openings while substantially reducing the wearer's ability to see facial expressions, particularly the eyes and mouth. Add part. The side filters 226c, 226d of the facial guard system 200 are designed to increase the total area of the filtered opening without blocking the view of the wearer's eyes and mouth, at least for a person standing slightly in front of or to one side of the wearer. This is an example of a filter opening added to the . Accordingly, the facial guard system 200 has a barrier and fixed platform that defines a relatively large sinus volume, has a filtered opening between the sealed chamber 224 and the environment, and has a sealed chamber volume. The ratio of the total area of the filtered openings to the total area of the filtered openings is large enough to avoid echoes. Additional sides or lateral filtered openings may alternatively or additionally be defined and supported by anchor bases of the facial guard system that extend along the sides of the wearer's face.

The embodiments of the facial guard system described above with a barrier or front shield, base, and vent can be used or adapted for other applications.

Optionally, the filter used in any of the embodiments and examples described above is removable (or removable of the frame or cartridge etc.) for sterilization by O3 perfusion or UV irradiation within a compartmentalized handbag or shoulder bag. (incorporated into possible components). The entire facial guard system may optionally be configured to be placed in such a compartment and sterilized.

In each of the embodiments and examples of embodiments described above, the barrier (visor 102 or shield 202) is made of a relatively rigid material and, unless otherwise noted, is made as an integral or single piece. However, it can be assembled from pieces or from multiple different types of materials. For example, the barrier may optionally incorporate corrective lenses in a position within the wearer's line of sight or be adapted to function as a head-up display. The corrective lens may be formed from the same material as the barrier and may be integrated with the barrier. It is also possible, for example, to form openings in the barrier and insert lenses therein to create a seal between each lens and the edge of the opening, or to not form openings in the barrier and affect the optical system of the lenses. It is also possible to form a support structure that fixes the lens without providing any.

Depending on the application of the facial guard system, the entire facial guard or visor may be clear or colored, with some parts clear and some parts colored. Transparent, in whole or in part, can mean transparent or colored but not opaque and capable of being seen through. You can make all or part of the image opaque, including areas other than the transparent area. For example, when used to treat sleep apnea, all or part of the area around the eyes can be darkened to reduce or block light transmission. When embodied as personal protective equipment for healthcare workers, at least the portion of the barrier in front of the wearer's eyes and mouth must be sufficiently transparent to be visible to others to improve communication, and the remaining Preferably, the parts are of the same or different levels of transparency, including opacity. The portion may be transparent or colored.

The foregoing description is of exemplary and preferred embodiments. The invention, as defined by the appended claims, is not limited to the described embodiments. The embodiments are non-limiting examples and unless otherwise indicated, changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments may be made without departing from the invention. The meanings of terms are intended to have their ordinary and customary meanings to those skilled in the art, unless otherwise specified, and are not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments shown and described.

Claims (20)

A device configured to be worn on a person's head in front of the person's face, the device comprising:
a barrier large enough to extend vertically from the forehead of the person wearing the device to at least the bottom of the person's mouth and laterally beyond each of the person's eyes;
a base configured to cooperate with the barrier to support the barrier in a position away from the person's face when the device is worn and pulled against the person's head; a base configured to form a seal between the barrier and a person's face when the device is worn, thereby creating an enclosed space in front of the person's face;
and at least one filtered opening that allows air flow between the enclosed space and an environment outside the enclosed space through the filter. The base is configured to form a seal with the barrier along its periphery when worn by a person, and extends across the wearer's forehead and into the cheekbones, cheeks, and chin on either side of the wearer's face. configured to descend along the chin and create a continuous seal under the wearer's chin;
2. The barrier and the base cooperate to prevent substantial air from entering and exiting the enclosed space except through the at least one filtered opening. The device described. 3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter is capable of blocking at least a predetermined proportion of particles contained in an air flow passing through the filter of the type that the protection system is intended to protect. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the particle is a virus. The filter is comprised of a filter medium with non-woven fibers that forms a dense yet sufficiently porous interface to allow air to flow while trapping or otherwise preventing the movement of particles through the filter. 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device inhibits the passage of particles having a diameter of 0.3 micrometers or more by blocking. The at least one filtered opening includes a submandibular filtered opening under the wearer's chin or chin, and a frontal filtered opening when the device is placed on the wearer's face. 6. The device according to claim 1, having a front filtered opening. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the submandibular filtered opening includes an integrated fan. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the fan is powered by a battery supported by the device. 9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the fan comprises a centrifugal fan. Apparatus according to any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the fan draws air from an environment external to the apparatus and blows a stream of filtered air into the enclosed space. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein when the device is worn on a person, the integrated fan and filter assembly is configured to direct a flow of filtered air toward the person's nostrils. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising lateral filtered openings arranged along the sides of each device. The barrier is rigid and sufficiently transparent to allow another person directly in front of the person wearing the device to see the eyes and mouth of the person wearing the device, at least in front of the mouth and eyes of the person wearing the device. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a shield. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more filtered openings have an opening defined in the barrier. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the one or more filtered apertures have an aperture defined in the base. The base has a fixation platform configured to fit the first portion of the barrier forming a seal and the face of the person wearing the device to form the seal. 16. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a second portion. The second portion is displaced toward the first portion when the fixation platform is pulled against the face of the person wearing the device, and generates a restoring force to resist the displacement. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a sealing surface supported by the second portion for the purpose of sealing. The sealing surface is supported by the second portion such that when the fixation platform is pulled against the face, the sealing surface is oriented toward the face of the person wearing the device. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein Any of claims 1 to 18, wherein when a person wears the device, the enclosed space has a large total sinus volume to avoid substantial loading on the person's voice when the person speaks. The device according to item 1. When a person wears the device, one or more filtered apertures in the device have a cumulative 20. The device of claim 19, having a total area.

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